34. Alveolar ventilation and blood gas exchange
34. Alveolar ventilation and blood gas exchange
- Gillian Pocock, Gillian PocockSenior Lecturer in Clinical Science, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, UK
- Christopher D. RichardsChristopher D. RichardsEmeritus Professor of Experimental Physiology, Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Life Sciences, University College London, London, UK
- and David A. RichardsDavid A. RichardsAssociate Professor, Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, Husson University School of Pharmacy, Bangor, Maine, USA
Abstract
This chapter examines the main function of the respiratory system, which is to provide the cells of the body with oxygen for the generation of metabolic energy and to remove the carbon dioxide produced by oxidative metabolism. To do so, it must have a means of transporting these two gases to and from the tissues and exchanging them with the atmospheric air. It focuses on the gas exchange in the alveoli and the matching of blood flow to the availability of oxygen. The chapter details the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide by the blood. Broadly, the respiratory system can be considered to consist of two parts: the conducting airways and the area of gas exchange.
